South Africa’s best hiking trails
Hiking is a perfect adventure activity for outdoor and thrill seekers. These are the hiking trails available in South Africa.
South Africa is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. With its stunning panoramas, diverse terrain, and abundance of hiking trails, it offers something for everyone. From the rugged Drakensberg Mountains to the coastal beauty of Tsitsikamma National Park, there is sure to be an adventure waiting to be explored.
Enjoy the journey at your own pace by renting a car from a reputable car hire in South Africa. If you need a car rental from the Johannesburg Airport or a Cape Town Airport car hire, Drive South Africa would be happy to assist with that, ensuring a seamless start to your adventure.
This article reveals 8 of the best hiking trails in South Africa.
Table Mountain National Park
Boasting kilometer after kilometer of trails for hikers of all levels, ranging from easy coastal walks to challenging summit climbs, it’s no wonder that Table Mountain is one of the most popular places to hike in South Africa. When exploring this park, you can expect to see marine animals, various breeds of birds, and other wildlife as well.
Unfortunately, its close proximity to Cape Town means it records a significant number of visitors, so plan your visit accordingly. If you are looking for a steep climb that offers spectacular views, Platteklip Gorge Trail is the one you should take.
The Drakensberg Mountains
The Drakensberg Mountains are the perfect destination for hikers of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you are looking for a short walk or an overnight hike, the Southern Drakensberg has something to offer everyone. You will be enveloped in stunning views and tranquil peace while taking a dip in a mountain stream.
Popular trails include Royal Natal National Park, Mnweni Cultural and Hiking Center, Cathedral Peak Hotel, Champagne Valley, Injisuthi Camp, and Giant’s Castle. There are so many options that you’re sure to find something just right for you, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a novice.
Tsitsikamma National Park
Tsitsikamma National Park is one of South Africa’s most beautiful protected areas, located on the breathtaking Garden Route. The park has an array of hiking trails available for all skill levels, from easy to challenging. Nature-lovers and adventurers alike will find something to enjoy here. Some of the most popular trails are the Storms River suspension bridge, Mouth Trail, and Otter Trail.
Cederberg Wilderness Area
Cederberg Wilderness Area is a protected area in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. The Cederberg offers some of the best backpacking trails in South Africa, in a network of trails that can be covered between 2 and 5 days.
Wild Coast Trail
Wild Coast Trail is a hiking trail that covers 60 km+ of pristine coastline: wide, shell-filled beaches, rocky headlands, coastal forest, estuaries, and river mouths. Walk between 15-20 km per day with a guide while your luggage is transferred round to the next hotel in the chain. There are several magnificent hiking trails along the Wild Coast, including the Hole in the Wall Hiking Trail, the Port St Johns to Coffee Bay Hiking Trail, and the Strandloper Trail.
Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve
Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve is a significant natural feature of South Africa, located in Mpumalanga Province. The reserve protects the Blyde River Canyon, including sections of the Ohrigstad and Blyde Rivers and covers an area of 29,000 hectares.
The main attractions of the reserve are the scenic vistas of the Lowveld and Drakensberg from Ledbusha to God’s Window. The area is known for its waterfalls, including Lisbon Falls, Mac-Mac Falls, and Berlin Falls, as well as its abundant wildlife. It provides some excellent opportunities for hiking and camping with a variety of trails for all skill levels.
Augrabies Falls National Park
Augrabies Falls National Park is a national park located around the Augrabies Falls, about 120 km west of Upington in the Northern Cape Province, South Africa. The park covers an area of 820 km² and stretches along the Orange River. There are two hiking trails in Augrabies Falls National Park: Klipspringer Trail and Dassie Trail. The Klipspringer Trail is a challenging three-days affair, while Dassie Trail is far gentler and easy to do with children.
The Otter Trail
The Otter Trail is considered South Africa’s most popular hiking trail, and one of the best for serious hikers. This 42km-long hiking trail, that begins at the Storms River Mouth in Tsitsikamma National Park and ends at Nature’s Valley, offers stunning views of the Indian ocean. Other popular trails include the Golden Gate Highlands Rhebok Hiking Trail in Free State, Amatola Hiking Trail in Eastern Cape, and St. Blaize Trail in Western Cape.
No matter what type of hiker you are, a holiday in South Africa has something to offer everyone. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich culture, it’s clear to see why so many people choose to explore this beautiful country on foot. So, if you are looking for an unforgettable adventure, be sure to check out some of South Africa’s best hiking trails!
